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Maintaining a Healthy Heart

By Jordan Miller;The heart is one of the most important
organs in the human body. It is a specialized muscle that contracts regularly
and continuously, pumping blood through the body and to the lungs. The pumping
action is the result of a flow of electricity through the heart that repeats
itself in a cycle. The heart pumps the blood, which carries all the vital
materials which help our bodies function and removes the waste products that we
do not need. For example, the brain requires oxygen and glucose, which, if not
received continuously, will cause it to loose consciousness. Muscles need
oxygen, glucose and amino acids, as well as the proper ratio of sodium, calcium
and potassium salts in order to contract normally. The glands need sufficient
supplies of raw materials from which to manufacture the specific secretions. If
the heart ever ceases to pump blood the body begins to shut down and after a
very short period of time will die.

In order to avoid premature failure of the
heart, we must take good care of it. You see, like any organ in our bodies, the
heart has a function. Without it, we simply could not survive. In light of
this, we have included below tips to help you maintain a healthy heart.

Feeding
Our Hearts

Our bodies need proper nutrition in order
for them to function optimally. Not only do we need macronutrients in the form
of carbohydrates, fats and proteins, but our bodies also need the right amount
of micronutrients (minerals, vitamins, enzymes) to operate and survive.
Contrary to popular belief (where our bodies are viewed as merely physical parts)
our bodies are energetic manifestations which require energy for survival.

Magnesium

With regard to the heart, energy also plays
an integral part. The heart functions without any thought. It is governed by
certain homeostatic control mechanisms which allow it to freely pump blood
through the body. In order to properly fuel the heart, we need to ingest
adequate amounts of magnesium as it is the master nutrient for the heart. It
helps reduce vascular resistance and lowers blood pressure. In conjunction with
the heart, magnesium also helps pump potassium and sodium in and out of the
cell. A deficiency of magnesium is usually the culprit with potassium deficiency,
and thus high blood pressure. Foods that contain magnesium include: artichokes,
almonds, cashews, pine nuts, black beans, pumpkin seeds, spinach (other dark
leafy greens), and raw (unpasteurized) chocolate!

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are known to decrease
triglycerides (dangerous blood fats) by as much as 50% and lower cholesterol by
12% on average. Further to this, Omega-3 fatty acids help reduce inflammation
which is the main culprit behind the buildup of plaque. Omega-3 fatty acids can
be found in flax seeds and walnuts.

An
important antioxidant and cardiac muscle strengthener, Co-enzyme Q 10 is very
important to the health of the heart. This nutrient begins to delete form the
body with age, elevated stress and illness and the use of satin drugs. This
micronutrient can be found in spinach and broccoli.

Folic Acid

Also known as vitamin B9, folic acid helps
reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease associated with high blood levels of
homocysteine. Folic acid can be found in both leafy greens and beans.

Selenium

Many of us are deficient in this vital
nutrient; This antioxidant mineral works with vitamin E to clean-up damaging
free radicals in the blood. Selenium can be found mainly in lentils and Brazil
nuts.

Allicin

Studies have shown that allicin, which is
found most abundantly in garlic and also to a lesser degree in onions and
leeks, may help preventing blood clots from forming in coronary arteries.

Flavinoids

Flavonoids
inhibit the action of platelets, which are the blood cells that join to form
blood clots. They are antioxidants that also help the absorption and action of
vitamin C. Flavonoids can be found in fruit and vegetable, especially apples
and onion

Love

Always
ensure that you are culturing a life of love. As described above we are energy
beings, therefore, every action and reaction affects the health of the heart.
Always strive to center yourself in love. By doing this, your heart shall
shine.

Things to Avoid or Reduce

Of
course, in an effort to improve anything we must not only increase elements
that are beneficial, we must also decrease (as much as possible) some of the
negative attributes. In the case of the heart we must to our best to avoid the
following substances or actions.

Manage
our Stress

Stress
can be a deadly foe when it comes to our health. Too much cortisol secretion
can wreak havoc on our bodies; therefore, it is wise that we take the necessary
steps to help keep stress at bay. Ensure that you’re getting plenty of rest. Always
ensure to take the time to relax; take up yoga or meditation to calm the
nerves.

Avoid Smoking and Excessive Alcohol Consumption

Many of us know that smoking can cause
cancer to from, however smoking can also be linked to many other dysfunctions
and/or ailments of the body. Smoking can also put a huge strain on the heart.
Quit smoking and your chances of having a heart attack will be reduced at least
50%. Further to smoking, excessive alcohol consumption can also put a great
strain on the heart as it has to operate harder to rid the body of toxins.
Wherever possible keep alcohol consumption at a minimum.

Reducing Salt/Sodium Consumption

Much of the reason why the there are
increased incidences of heart disease and the like in the “Western World” is because
of the simple fact that we are what we eat. Over the last 100 years or so, our
consumption of salt has increased substantially, and as a result, we are seeing
increased incidences of heart disease and high blood pressure. If you want to
reduce your consumption of sodium/salt by more than half immediately, refrain in
eating any packaged foods. All forms of processed salt contain 96% sodium chloride; its best if you moderately use full spectrum salts such as Himalayan or Celtic Sea Salt.

Limit Red Meat Consumption

Following the simple adage “you are what
you eat” we can assure ourselves a whole lot of good – especially for the
optimal functioning of the heart. By reducing the consumption of red meat, we
reduce the amount of saturated fat we consume. With anything, we must focus on
consuming foods in moderation. When shopping for meat, look for leaner sources
such as chicken or fish.

Get
Moving

One of the best ways to keep the heart in
tip top form is to exercise. Your heart is like a giant muscle. Exercising it
like you work your arm or leg muscles will improve its strength and stamina. However,
you should aim to do exercises that specifically work your heart and lungs.
Keep in mind that the effects of exercise aren’t only restricted to your heart
– it will tone your whole body too. If running or jogging alone is boring for
you, perhaps consider getting involved in a sport. This will work your body
while also encouraging you to have fun!

Final
Thoughts

At the end of the day our choices and
actions dictate our environment. We all have the choice to exercise free will.
In considering the health of your heart, always look to your body for the
answers. After all, the body does not lie; be kind to it!

Your question: What do you do to take care of your heart? (post your comments below)

About the Author
: Jordan Miller is the co-founder of guidinginstincts.com. He has overcome illness through dietary/lifestyle changes, and
practicing a positive mindset daily. Jordan is currently learning about traditional North American medicinal herbs, in hopes of becoming a Certified Herbalist.

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